The bill to establish an independent regulator for English football has now officially become law — a move supporters are hailing as a “historic moment” for the game.
Originally drafted to introduce an independent body overseeing English football, the bill has now passed into law, according to the BBC. Supporters believe this marks a turning point, as the Football Governance Act will empower a regulator that operates independently from both the government and football’s existing authorities.
The bill received Royal Assent on Monday, making it legally binding. It officially paves the way for the creation of a regulator that will oversee the top five tiers of men’s football in England.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed the excitement, calling the legislation a “proud and historic moment for English football” — one that will ensure a stronger, fairer future for the sport. Kevin Miles, Chief Executive of the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA), described it as “a landmark moment for football in this country.”
The push for an independent regulator came after a fan-led review. The former Conservative government had introduced the bill in March 2024, but it stalled due to the general election in May. The Labour government revived the bill four months later. The regulator is set to launch by the end of this year, with the government confirming that key stakeholders will be consulted before any new rules are implemented.
Starmer stated, “Our historic Football Governance Act delivers on the promises we made to supporters — it will protect their cherished clubs and safeguard football’s role in our economy.”
Beyond protection, the regulator will be tasked with ensuring financial stability across all levels of the football pyramid. It will also have the power to block breakaway competitions like the European Super League.
However, the bill hasn’t been universally welcomed. Some Conservative MPs voiced opposition during its passage. Karen Brady, West Ham United’s Vice Chair, warned in the House of Lords that the bill carried “certain risks” and could potentially affect competition.
Speaking to the BBC, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy described the law as “a big moment for football fans.” She cited the example of her own club, Wigan Athletic, which faced turmoil due to poor ownership and financial troubles. She added, “Now, fans can breathe easier, knowing we’re strengthening football’s foundations and returning supporters to the heart of the game — exactly where they belong.”
As for the Premier League, they’ve yet to comment on the development. Previously, the league has maintained that English football is capable of governing itself. They have also warned that external regulation could create unintended issues, possibly affecting competitiveness, reducing investment in top-tier talent, and harming the global appeal and growth of the game.
